knotsewcute

When I was younger, I used to love to "crochet" at my grandma's house. She taught me how to crochet a chain stitch, so I would pick one of her many balls of yarn and just chain away... and just end up with one ridiculously long... well, chain. I'm not exactly sure what was so exciting or satisfying since I didn't actually crochet anything useful, but it definitely solidified my joy of crocheting. If I could spend hours on end crocheting nothing, I can see why I am able to spend days crocheting something warm and cozy.

As the weather cooled down in Santa Barbara in October I decided that I wanted a new scarf. I saw a few crocheted scarves that I liked at the store, but the prices for the simplest scarves started at around $20. Not too bad, I thought to myself, but I can make that for less! Rather than searching the interwebs for a free pattern, I wanted support a fellow Etsian. There were so many designs to choose from, but I excitedly settled on an infinity scarf crochet pattern from knotsewcute for just a few dollars. The instructions arrived in an easy-to-follow PDF in my email in less than 12 hours after purchasing.

I purchased 2 balls (100g each) of Lion Brand Sock-Ease sock yarn in the color "Green Apple" from my local Michaels. The olive green yarn was 75% wool and 25% nylon - a nice blend that keeps the scarf soft yet warm. The yarn was ultra fine so it took me one month to complete. My gauge was a little smaller than the pattern called for, and I made the scarf a little wider and longer than the original pattern. I kept the scalloped edging but decided to go sans fringe.

I finished it just in time to take it to with me to rainy, cold Portland this Thanksgiving. I couldn't have been more pleased with the way it turned out. Thanks, knotsewcute!

Isn't this scarf lovely? I've paired it with my long, beautiful feather earrings from Rogue Butterfly. If you love to crochet and are looking for a few new projects, you should definitely check out knotsewcute on Etsy!

Wish List

I started creating a wish list last night of all the things I might want for the holidays (just in case anyone should happen to ask) or would perhaps treat myself to. It was fun thinking about all the items that I wouldn't normally just purchase. However, as my list started to get longer and I started to note the prices, I began to feel so materialistic.  Well of course it would be nice to have these things, but would it make me happier? 

As much as I love surprises and presents, it started to make me feel so silly that I was making this list. They were things that would be nice to have, but really, I don't need any of it. I started pondering about the things that really mattered to me... I want memorable experiences with the people I love and cherish. I want to live life to the fullest. I want to try new things and visit new places. I want to make the people in my life know that they are loved and appreciated. This is what will make me happy this holiday season.

August 2009

Cliff jumping at sunset

Waimea Beach, Hawaii

PC A.M.

I can't wait to go home to see my family and friends. It's been one year too long. It will be a wonderful two weeks.

Fish Tacos

I'm so lucky. Sometimes when I'm still busy doing work on my laptop at home, a delicious looking meal happens to appear in front of me. Last time it was a salmon taco, quite a fancy looking one too, mind you. The boyfriend can cook (!), and my tummy absolutely loves it.

I didn't get a chance to post these earlier, but I was working on stud earrings for the Montessori Center School's Holiday Boutique. I decided that they would be perfect little gifts for young girls (even if I love to wear them too). These rose bud studs are darling.

On a side note, did you know that Nutella actually tastes better than chocolate fudge frosting on cupcakes? The texture is wonderful too... Hello, new addiction.

I've started to save cute packaging or cards that I can recycle into backings for my post earrings. What do you think? These adorable polka dot patterned pieces came from a birthday present bag that I saved from a year ago. I was so excited that I finally got a chance to cut it up and use it!

Anyway, we just came back from hot yoga, and I'm thinking about cooking dinner tonight. Time to treat the boyfriend since he's always making me delicious meals.

Christmas at the Beach

I was featured in a gorgeous Etsy treasury, "Christmas at the Beach", curated by Beth of SweetPaperLove. I absolutely adore these colors. This is just what I'm looking forward to in a week!! The warm sun, cool glistening blue-green waters, salty breeze...

Home will always be where the heart is ♥

Holiday Artist Market @ Whole Foods

Whole Food's Holiday Artist Market this Saturday, December 3 from 11am-4pm will be my last event of the year! Stop by if you're interested in picking up some holiday gifts while shopping local.

Here's a little blurb from Whole Foods:

Holiday Artist Market - First Saturday of every month!
Saturday, December 3rd / 11:00AM - 4:00PM
Looking for unique gifts for the holidays? Pickup lunch in the store, relax on our patio, and stroll through the parking lot with 30+ local artist booths full of original jewelry, paintings, pottery, eco-clothing, handmade gifts and more. Live music by Karen Thurber starting at 12Noon! Multi genre song stylist Karen Thurber performs jazzy bluesy rock and pop originals with her smooth alto voice and acoustic guitar. Guitarist Bill Lanphar will join Karen adding tasty embellishments to the acoustic mix.

I'm crossing my fingers that the winds calm down!

PC I.

October 2011

The Montessori Center School's first Holiday Boutique yesterday was wonderful! It was definitely worth the day off of work; it was just the break (and excitement) I needed to jump back into the swing of things after being on vacation for almost a week. I'm really glad that I got to be a part of an event that also gave back to the school. It brought back memories of when my elementary school used to have its holiday fair as well. Friends and families would bring donations to the fair. My grandma would always donate beautiful quilts. Come to think of it, the event was probably pretty small, but back then I love how everything filled the space with holiday cheer.

MCS Holiday Boutique

I've been so incredibly busy with work and traveling out of state for Thanksgiving, I feel like I've barely had time to sleep and breathe, let alone update my blog and make jewelry!

I'm excited to participate in Montessori Center School's holiday boutique tomorrow. Although I'm stressed because I'm taking a day off from work and I leave Santa Barbara in less than two weeks for the holidays, I think this will be a fun event for me. I have lots to prepare tonight, but I'm sure the creativity will start flowing again and help me relax. Thankfully, most of my holiday shopping is done. How is yours going? Shop local whenever you get the chance! (:

Ocean Mist Necklace

SHOP

Holiday Special

In this wonderful season of giving, I'm offering free shipping in my Etsy shop from Sunday, November 20, 2011 through Sunday, November 27, 2011. All you have to do is use the coupon code "HOLIDAYSPECIAL" at checkout. Enjoy!

Icicle Shoulder Duster Earrings

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Please note, any purchases made during this time will be shipped on Monday, November 28, 2011. I will be celebrating Thanksgiving away from Santa Barbara (:

My Workspace

I live in a studio apartment, so I really don't have any real "workspace." Two long board surfboards, two long board skateboards, a couch, a road bike, a TV, a bookshelf, a queen size bed, two bed side tables, a bird cage (with a pet rat inside), among a handful of other things take up most of the floor space. It prevents me from acquiring too many things that I don't need, but at the same time it doesn't leave me too much room to have my own jewelry space.

The bed, the couch, and frequently, the floor, are the places I find myself making jewelry. They're probably not the most practical places to keep beads from rolling around and disappearing into oblivion, but its manageable.

One day I wouldn't mind having my own dedicated jewelry table. Whenever I'm at a hardware or container store, I'm always looking at all the containers with cute little drawers that could hold my supplies. In the meantime, I have a portable craft box with three compartmentalized tackle boxes inside. The bf thoughtfully purchased it for me for my last birthday. Its easy to take with me to my jewelry shows so I can make new pieces while I'm there.

Shimmering Sands Earrings
SHOP

I wore my pair to a wedding I went to last month. Pretty, girly, beachy, and elegant. I'm hoping to use more pearls and clusters in my designs released this holiday season. Rest assured, each pair is unique because I will probably keep losing pearls and crystals as they roll off the bed. Just kidding.

Full Weekend Ahead!

I'll be participating in *two* jewelry events this weekend! 

Have you started preparing for the crazy holiday season? If not, this is the perfect time to start!

Whole Food's Local Artist Market

anndddd

Backyard Boutique!

 I'm working on designing new holiday pieces, so feel free to stop by if you're around the area (: Either way, have a lovely weekend!

** Update **

Here's a little blog post by Stacy Lynn from the Backyard Boutique event!

Bridesmaids Gifts

I finished my first order of bridesmaids gifts a few weeks ago, and I'm so pleased with the way the packaging turned out. The starfish are cutout by hand and the stamps themselves are also carved by hand.  I don't mind putting in the extra time and effort; seeing the end product is always so rewarding. The boyfriend convinced me to make my own stamps so that I would have a one-of-a-kind design. It seemed like too much of a hassle at first, but I'm so glad I decided to dive into this little side project. I absolutely adore my stamps, and it makes me smile every time I use them.

I also attended my first wedding two weeks ago (the first where I am actually old enough to know what's happening). The ceremony and reception were held outdoors at a beautiful ranch in Santa Ynez, California. The bride was glowing and looked stunning in her dress, and the wedding was such a lovely event. Congratulations W & P!

Happy November everyone! Let the holiday season begin (:

SBCC Surf Fest & Swap Meet

Santa Barbara City College Surf Fest & Swap Meet

Saturday, October 22, 2011

9:00am - 3:00pm

Lower Level SBCC parking lots (across from Leadbetter Beach)

***

Surfboards, wetsuits, beach wear,skate gear, my ocean-inspired jewelry, and anything else related to the outdoors (new and used) will be available for viewing and for purchase.

Ongoing activities include Brazilian jui-jitsu, hula hopping, balance competitions, and more!

Enter the raffle for a chance to win great prizes from businesses like Trader Joe's, Paragon Jui-Jitsu, Silvergreens, and Blenders.

Live music by Nate Latta.

*All proceeds from space rental and raffle benefit SBCC Women's basketball*

P.C. RT

October 2011

Oahu, Hawaii

I'm so excited for this event since it's the perfect audience for my ocean-inspired jewelry.

**UPDATE**

It was surprisingly foggy, but the event was lovely. I decided to participate in the raffle, and I actually won something! I feel like I never win anything in things like this. I got a gift certificate for a tandem kayak rental or a stand up paddle board rental for two hours from Paddle Sports of Santa Barbara. I can't wait to use it! I'll be sure to post some pictures from my little adventure.

A customer appreciation photo - Thanks, M.P.! One of my newest designs that I haven't been able to put on Etsy yet. Pearls, pearls, and more pearls, with a sprinkle of crystals and quartz.

I appreciate all of you who stopped by to visit!

Treasure Hunt

There's something about a treasure hunt that's so addicting...

P.C. RT

(maybe that's why my parents keep going back for more!)

I know that I love a treasure hunt... especially when it comes to scoring an amazing deal. My addiction started with shopping at Ross. I've been shopping at Ross for years now. I've found clothes that were still being sold at full-price at Sears or Macy's. I have two beautiful maxi dresses from Ross, both of which were under $25 each and probably from Macy's (i.e.. City Triangles). And I thought those were great finds... until I was introduced to thrift store shopping by the boyfriend. About a month ago I found a brand new (with tags) Mossimo Supply Co. black cocktail dress, a brand new (with tags) black maxi dress (brand affiliated with Target), an American Apparel Le Sac Dress in evergreen/black, and Champion cropped running pants for a total of $21. What a steal, right?!

P.C. RT
October 2011

Oahu, Hawaii

 ... It just takes a little bit of luck, patience, and sifting through. What unexpected things have you stumbled across lately? (:

Local Artist Market @ Whole Foods

I can't believe one month has come and gone and it's already time for another Whole Foods sale this Saturday! See my "Upcoming Events" column on the right side of the page for more details about where and when I'll be there. A comfortable 72 degrees is forecasted (:

On a side note, my adorable parents have been picking sea glass for me!

So unexpected! They're so sweet. I can't wait to browse through these pieces in person. I think I spy some pretty good ones!

Catalina Crossing

:: Catalina Channel Crossing ::

2011 US Outrigger Championship Race

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Newport Beach, CA to Catalina Island

:: 26 miles ::

My last 6 months of training have been building up to this race. We were up before the sun, struggling to down food that we knew we needed to sustain us for the arduous journey ahead. This particular Saturday morning greeted us with thunderstorms and lightning, and the scheduled start time was pushed back an hour. 8:45am rolled around and 60 outrigger canoes lined up in two rows facing the edge of the earth, waiting patiently in the grey, tumultuous water for the start flags. Shivering incessantly from my quick dip in the ice-cold ocean and the breeze against my drenched jersey, I attempted to take cover within the canoe. It's too late - flash of red, flash of green - the flags go down - GO GO GO!

Newport Beach, CA

September 10, 2011

PC: C. Silvester

40 minutes later I'm sitting in the Andale - soaking up the adrenaline high of the start, guzzling down more water, ripping open my pouch of beef jerky. Another 40 minutes pass and it's time to get back in - I'm dreading the leap off the support boat into the frigid open ocean that relentlessly attempts to flip our canoe over. "Ready.... GO!" Splash - splash - splash! Three paddlers are in. I wanted to scream; the icy water pierced through my bones. "SEAT 1! SEAT 1!", I yelled, trying to concentrate on the canoe charging at my head. I grabbed on and swung myself in. "One, two, three, four, five", I counted to myself trying to make sure I set the pace at a high enough rate.

40 minutes later, and I'm back on the support boat again to recuperate. I hear over the radio - 2 paddlers have succumbed to hypothermia... no, 3 paddlers now have hypothermia. And it's only just the beginning...

PC: H. Cole

5 hours, 41 minutes, and 35 seconds later we cross the finish line at the mouth of Avalon Harbor at Catalina Island. Little did we know our canoe had just placed 10th in our open co-ed division. Six months ago when I joined the club I intended on being a recreational paddler. And here I was on the racing team, exhausted and pleased after 26 miles of paddling, finishing in the top half of our division even if our crew was comprised mainly of novice paddlers. What a way to end the season.

PC: C. Silvester

What's next, you may ask? More jewelry time? Perhaps... if I didn't suddenly decide to train for my first ever half marathon in less than 8 weeks!

Green Dog Jewelry

I participated in a Jewelry Boutique at Reds a few months ago and happened to set up next to Green Dog Jewelry. At one point we started chatting next to her rings so I decided to try some on for fun - nothing struck me in particular, at least not in the display tray - but I have been interested in finding another ring to wear everyday. As I tried a few on, I came across a dainty sterling silver ring with a light green translucent gemstone. The faceted prehenite glowed in the sunlight when I picked it up and looked radiant against my skin tone. The delicate band had etching detail and overlapped at one side - very unique. I was sold.

Unfortunately, the band was too large for my fingers! While I was wearing the ring, another seller wandered over and took an interest in it as well. It fit her perfectly, so I reluctantly let it go. Green Dog Jewelry told me that she could make another ring at some point if I didn't mind waiting a few months. I don't think I've ever fall in love with a piece of jewelry so quickly and unexpectedly - so I told her that if she ever had the chance, I would love to purchase a 4.5-5.5 size ring.

Four months go by and I receive the email I've been waiting for. Green Dog Jewelry stopped by the September Whole Foods Local Arts Market event to drop off my ring. The 5.5 fit perfectly on my index finger and looked wonderful with the other two rings that I like to wear. I was ecstatic. I've been wearing this little beauty every day since.

Within/Without Chalcedony Sterling Band Ring (similar)
SHOP
Within/Without Carnelian Sterling Band Ring (LOVE!!)
SHOP
Within/Without Sterling Band Ring (simple band only, very pretty)
SHOP

Green Dog Jewelry is talented, isn't she? I hope she makes it out to a Whole Foods event soon!

Etsy Stalker

I've been STALKED!!

.... by Etsy Stalker ^.^

My newest Rave in the Cave Luxe necklace was featured in Beatrice and Violet's blog, Etsy Stalker! The post was titled "Roughing it: Geodes, Druzies, & Unpolished Gems." I was delighted to find my sparkling blue-grey pendant among other beautiful druzy creations. What a great way to start off my morning.

"Rave in the Cave Luxe Necklace"

SHOP

Also, did you know that Etsy is a Google product search marketplace partner? Items from qualified Etsy shops are automatically submitted to Google product search. I did a druzy necklace search on Google last night and my Rave in the Cave Luxe necklace showed up in the shopping tab! How exciting. I didn't realize until yesterday that my shop had finally been syndicated!

New jewelry designs and blog posts are in the works as the SCORA (Southern California Outrigger Racing Association) racing season has officially ended and my weekends are finally free!

My Biggest (& Best) Critic

It was the week after getting back to Santa Barbara from a wonderful Christmas vacation in Hawaii - I had found beautiful pieces of sea glass during my frequent visit to the beach (I had to enjoy Hawaii's warm water while I could!). I found one frosted white piece that was incredibly smooth and pebble-like, perfect for my signature beach glass necklace. I figured that a simple picture of the pendant would be best, and I thought I had gotten some great shots. Nothing too creative but worthwhile posting on my blog (at the time I did not have an Etsy shop). 

My parents have always been so supportive of everything that I do, so I was very eager to show them my newest photos. I sent them an email as soon as I had finished editing the photos.

 

[Me]

Hi Mom and Dad, I made all these new pieces last week! It was sunny for just a couple hours this morning and I was able to finally take pictures. Let me know what you think :)

...

[Mom, 1 day later]

Hi Jen, The photos of the jewelry pieces seemed too white. I missed all the color, texture, and shaded light from the past. Although, I liked the pearl earrings. :)

...

[Me, thinking to myself]

:(

When I sent those pictures over, I knew they weren't representative of my best work but I thought they would suffice. I knew in the back of my mind that they were a little too white and that it washed out the details. (At the time I was still struggling with light, white balance, and clarity - making my pictures bright enough but not too light). I knew that the picture did not do this lovely pendant justice, but I guess I was hoping that no one else would notice. Wrong. And who was I kidding, I had an inkling that my mom was going to say something about it. (She had said something of a few previous photos I sent over the month before).

At first, the responses to my "let me know what you think :)" emails caught me off guard - I sent off photos to my mom thinking they were pretty nice, only to receive some "criticism" in return. (I put the word criticism in quotes because at the time it felt more negative than what I expected - or hoped - to hear, but in reality, I would call it advice). I let those pictures sit on my blog for a while because I really didn't know how to make them any better. However, it kept nagging at me that I was showcasing work that really just wasn't up to par... and my mom could tell. I really do value what my parents have to say, so it was a shock to hear at first - I don't think she's ever come off so honest before.

I came to terms that these pictures really weren't up to my standards, and that I should do something about it. I was capable of producing work of a higher quality so why just let my mediocre work sit? Inspiration struck, and I decided to re-take these photos (which I never do).

"Starfish Beach Glass Necklace"
SHOP

Needless to say, I was absolutely thrilled with the outcome.  The detail, the colors, the creativity... it was all there. Finally... I was truly satisfied.

"Seashell Beach Glass Necklace"
SHOP

And I have to say, thank you, Mom. Who else could I have counted on to be so straightforward and honest with me? Who else could have given me that little nudge of motivation to remind me that I should always be striving for the highest and never just settling, especially when I know (and they know) that I am capable of more. My mom's feedback is one really big reason why I think my photos continue to improve over time. She lets me know when they're not as aesthetically pleasing as they should be, and I am so so so grateful for her advice. I know I can always count on her to help me improve not only my photography and jewelry, but to remind me to always do my best in everything I pursue.

"Mini Sand Dollar Beach Glass Necklace"

 [Me, thinking to myself]

(: